RU2289842C2 - Printing device, method for control and printing system - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: printing devices and printing system, which are able to conduct direct communication with digital camera.

SUBSTANCE: on the early stage of connection between digital camera and direct print printer, direct print printer asks for an object, which contains password as information for objects recognition, which are recorded an stored in digital camera. As a result, after it is known that returned information contains recognition information, printer informs digital camera about its own recognition information.

EFFECT: ensured capability for realization of recognition process, which does not require to store unnecessary information in the digital camera, not depending on availability of direct print function on the digital camera connected to the printer.

25 cl, 27 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a printing device and a printing system that can communicate directly with a digital camera. Note that some modern digital cameras have the function of perceiving a moving image. However, since the main function of a digital camera is at least the function of photographing a still image, devices having the above function will also be called digital cameras (DSC).

State of the art

Typically, when printing an image received by a digital camera, the following processes are required. Namely, the image stored in the digital camera is read by a personal computer (which will hereinafter be referred to as a PC) and printed by a connected printer using an application program running on a PC.

That is, the image data stream looks like this: DSC → PC → printer, and the use of a PC is inevitable. Also, the PC must be running to print the image stored in the DSC.

When considering this situation, some suggestions were made earlier, according to which the DSC and the printer are connected directly, and the print command is issued on the display usually provided on the DSC (which hereinafter will be referred to here as direct photo printing).

The advantages of using a direct photo printing system are the simplicity of printing without starting a PC and the low cost of building a system, since a PC is not necessary. When a DSC is connected to a printer, the display normally provided in the DSC is used as a means of specifying various commands and, in particular, to confirm the image to be printed. Therefore, the printer does not require a special display used to confirm the image, which can further reduce the cost.

Most modern DSCs contain a universal communications tool used to connect to a PC. Usually a DSC contains USB (universal serial bus). When connected using this USB bus, a connection is established in which the DSC is defined as a slave device and the PC as a master device. From a PC perspective, DSC can be thought of as a simple external storage device.

When building a direct printing system by directly connecting the DSC to the printer using such a USB bus, it is advisable to use the DSC not only as a simple storage device, but also as a user interface device, since the system does not provide DSC connection to a PC.

Therefore, the printer must determine whether the connected device is a digital camera having this function. In other words, the printer must notify the digital camera that the connected printer has a direct print function.

However, since digital cameras have a USB interface, the digital camera can be physically connected to the printer. However, if the digital camera does not have a direct print function, then uninterpreted information is sent to such a digital camera, and the digital camera will not be able to determine whether this information should be ignored or stored. If such information is stored for information security purposes, unnecessary data may be stored.

When the DSC connects directly to the printer, they exchange various kinds of information. Typically, this two-way exchange of information is achieved using commands. However, many pieces of information are often required to complete a given process.

Consequently, when notifying of one significant process or receipt of information, an exchange of many teams must take place, and throughput as a whole inevitably worsens.

Especially, at an early stage of the connection between the DSC and the printer, the printer should notify the DSC about the printer’s functionality (manufacturer’s name, size of printing paper, sizes, availability of printing with cropped margins, etc.). In order to notify each such function using commands, the commands corresponding to all kinds of functions must be set in advance, and the exchange of information becomes very intense. Even if teams are given, they cannot cover teams for new features that may be added in the future.

When constructing a direct photo printing system directly connecting a digital camera and a printer, and printing images, while reflecting the wishes of users, the inventors of the present invention took these problems as problems and solved the problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention was accomplished by considering the above-mentioned problems and has as its first task the creation of a printing device that can perform a recognition (authentication) procedure, in which there is no need to store unnecessary information in a digital camera, regardless of whether the digital camera is connected to printer, direct printing function, as well as creating a method of controlling said device and printing system.

The second objective of the present invention is to provide a printing device that can increase the efficiency of information transfer when building a direct photo printing system and which prints the image that the user wants to print in a short time, and also to create a method of controlling said device and a printing system.

To solve the aforementioned problems, for example, a printing apparatus according to the present invention has the following arrangement.

Namely, the printing device, which is directly connected to the digital camera via universal communication means, uses the digital camera as a user interface device and prints the received image stored and stored by the digital camera, contains:

requesting means configured to request the connected external device to send information owned by this external device in order to recognize at an early stage of connection with the external device via said communication means whether the external device is a digital camera having a direct print function; and

notification means configured to, when, as a result of a request made by the request means, information sent from a connected device describes identification information held by a camera having a direct printing function of determining that the device is a digital camera having a function direct printing, and sending identification information indicating that the printing device itself as a connection source has a direct printing function.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numbers indicate like or like parts in all figures.

List of drawings

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a PD printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention,

2 is a schematic view of a control panel of a PD printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention,

3 is a block diagram showing an arrangement of a main part associated with controlling a PD printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention,

4 is a block diagram showing an ASIC arrangement of a PD printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention,

5 is a view showing a connection state of a PD printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention and a digital camera,

6 is a diagram for explaining software configurations of a PD printing apparatus and a digital camera that include NCDPs according to an embodiment of the present invention,

7 is a diagram explaining the essence of the NCDP communication procedures according to an embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 8 is a table explaining NCDP commands according to an embodiment of the present invention,

9 is a diagram for explaining a printing sequence based on a “basic procedure” in an NCDP according to an embodiment of the present invention,

10 is a diagram for explaining a printing sequence based on a “recommended procedure” in an NCDP according to an embodiment of the present invention,

11 is a diagram explaining a printing sequence when an error occurs in a “recommended procedure” in NCDP according to an embodiment of the present invention,

12 is a table explaining an example of a Capability command transmitted to an NCDP according to an embodiment of the present invention,

13 is a flowchart for explaining the nature of NCDP communication procedures according to an embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example in which a command (NCDPStart) that instructs to start an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

15 is a diagram explaining an example in which a procedure (ProcedureStart) that receives a transition command to the corresponding procedures from the camera is implemented using the PTP architecture,

Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example in which a command (NCDPEnd) that directs to complete an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

17 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a Capability command that transmits Capability from a PD printer to a camera in an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

Fig. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a GetImage procedure that receives an image file stored in the camera from the PD printer in the NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining an example in which a command procedure (StatusSend) that transmits an error status from a PD printer to a camera in an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a command procedure (PageEnd) that transfers the end of a print process for one page from a PD printer to a camera in an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

21 is a diagram explaining an example in which a procedure (JobEnd) that issues a command to end a print job from a PD printer to a camera in an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a procedure (JobStart) that issues a print command from a camera to a PD printer in an NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

23 is a diagram explaining an example in which a procedure (JobAbort) that issues a print emergency stop command from the camera to the PD printing apparatus in the NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

24 is a diagram explaining an example in which a procedure (JobContinue) that issues a print resume command from the camera to the PD printing apparatus in the NCDP procedure is implemented using the PTP architecture,

25 is a flowchart of a matching procedure according to an embodiment,

FIG. 26 is a block diagram of a DSC digital camera according to an embodiment, and

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of a processing sequence on the DSC side after receiving a request (GetObjectHandles) of objects held by a DSC digital camera according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a direct photo printing apparatus 1000 (hereinafter referred to as a PD printing apparatus) according to an embodiment of the present invention. This PD printer 1000 has a function of printing data received from a host computer (PC) as a conventional PC printer, and a function of printing image data directly read from a storage medium such as, for example, a memory card or the like, or print image data received from a digital camera.

1, the main part that forms the housing of the PD printing apparatus 1000 according to this embodiment of the invention has a lower housing part 1001, an upper housing part 1002, an access cover 1003, and an output tray 1004 as an external component. The lower part 1001 of the body forms almost the entire lower half of the main part, and the upper part 1002 of the body forms almost the entire upper half of the main part. The combination of these parts of the housing forms a hollow structure in which there is space for accommodating the mechanism, which will be described later. On the upper and front surfaces of the main part, respectively, holes are made. One end part of the output tray 1004 is pivotally mounted on the lower body part 1001, and the rotation of the tray 1004 opens / closes a hole made on the front surface of the lower body part 1001. For this reason, when the printing apparatus 1000 is to perform the printing process, the output tray 1004 is rotated toward the front surface, opening the hole so that the printed sheets can exit the hole. Released printed sheets are stacked on the output bins 1004 in turn. The output tray 1004 contains two auxiliary trays 1004a and 1004b, and when these auxiliary trays are pulled out if necessary, the loading area for printed sheets can be increased / decreased in three steps.

One end part of the access cover 1003 is pivotally mounted on the upper part 1002 of the housing to allow opening / closing of a hole made in the upper surface of the main part. When the access cover 1003 is open, the print head cartridge (not shown), ink tanks (not shown) or the like contained in the main part can be replaced. Although not shown when the access cover 1003 opens / closes, a protrusion formed on the rear surface of the cover 1003 rotates the cover open / close lever. By detecting the rotated position of this lever using a micro switch or the like, an open / closed state of the access cover 1003 can be detected.

The power button 1005 is located on the upper surface of the upper part 1003 of the housing so that it can be pressed. On the right side of the upper part 1002 of the housing, a control panel 1010 is provided that includes a liquid crystal display 1006, various push buttons, and the like. The structure of the control panel 1010 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. Reference numeral 1007 denotes an auto-feeder that automatically feeds a printed sheet to the main part of the device. Reference numeral 1008 denotes a paper gap select lever that is used to adjust the gap between the print head and the print sheet. Reference numeral 1009 denotes a slot for receiving a card into which an adapter is inserted that can receive a memory card. Through this adapter, you can directly extract and print image data stored in the memory card. As such a memory card (PC), for example, a compact flash memory card ("compact flash"), a smart media card, a memory stick type memory device, etc. are available. Reference numeral 1011 denotes a viewing device (liquid crystal display module), which is removable from the main part of the PD printing apparatus 1000, and is used to display a single frame image, an index image, and the like. Reference number 1012 indicates the USB connector used to connect the digital camera (to be explained later). Also on the back of this 1000 PD printer is a different USB connector used to connect to a personal computer (PC).

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a control panel 1010 of a PD printing apparatus 1000 according to an embodiment.

2, the liquid crystal display module 1006 shows menu items used to set data associated with item names printed on the right and left sides of the module 1006. The items displayed on this module include, for example, a first photograph number or a preset number the frame from their range to be printed (setting the start frame / setting the print frame), the number of the last photo of the range to be printed (end), the number of copies to be printed (copy count), type sheet of paper (printed sheet) used in the printing process (paper type), setting the number of photographs to be printed on one printed sheet (layout), setting print quality (quality), setting whether or not to print the photograph date (date printing) , the task of whether or not to print the photo after correction (image correction), displaying the number of printed sheets required for the printing process (counting printed sheets), etc. These items are selected or indicated using the 2001 cursor keys. Reference number 2002 denotes a mode key. Each time this key is pressed, the printing type (index printing, printing all frames, printing one frame, etc.) can be switched, and one corresponding light emitting diode (LED) 2003 is turned on according to the selected printing type. Reference number 2004 indicates a maintenance key that is used to perform maintenance on the printer (for example, cleaning the print head, etc.). Reference number 2005 indicates the print start key, which is pressed when it is ordered to start the printing process, or when it is decided to set the service. Reference number 2006 denotes a print cancel key that is pressed to cancel the printing process or maintenance.

The arrangement of the main part associated with the control of the PD printing apparatus 1000 according to this embodiment of the invention will be described below with reference to FIG. Note that the parts common with those described in the aforementioned drawings are indicated by the same reference numbers in FIG. 3, and their description will be omitted.

3, reference numeral 3000 denotes a controller (control board). Reference number 3001 denotes a specialized integrated circuit (ASIC). The layout of the ASIC 3001 will be described later with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 4. Reference numeral 3002 denotes a DSP digital signal processor that contains a central processing unit (CPU) and performs various control operations that will be described later and image processing operations, for example, converting a luminance signal (RGB) to a density signal (CMYK), scaling , gamma conversion, image quality improvement according to the principle of random dot scattering, etc. Reference numeral 3003 denotes a memory that has a memory area serving as program memory 3003a for storing a control program to be executed by a CPU included in the DSP 3002, a RAM area for storing an executable program, and a work area for storing image data and the like. Reference numeral 3004 denotes a printer machine. In this embodiment, the printer is equipped with an ink jet printer machine that prints a color image using a combination of color inks. Reference number 3005 denotes a USB connector as a port for connecting a digital camera (DSC) 3012. Reference number 3006 denotes a connector for connecting a viewing device 1011. Reference numeral 3008 denotes a USB hub (USB HUB). When the PD printing apparatus 1000 performs a printing process based on image data from the PC 3010, the USB hub 3008 allows data received from the PC 3010 to pass through it and outputs the data to the printer machine 3004 via the USB bus 3021. Thus, a PC 3010 connected to a printing device can perform a printing process by directly exchanging data, signals, and the like. using the printer machine 3004 (the printer is used as a regular PC printer). Reference number 3009 denotes a connector for supplying direct current voltage (DC) obtained by converting the mains voltage to alternating current (AC) in the power supply 3019. PC 3010 is an ordinary personal computer. Reference number 3011 denotes the aforementioned memory card (PC card); and 3012 denotes a digital camera (DSC).

Note that the controller 3000 and the printer machine 3004 exchange signals via the USB bus 3021 or the IEEE1284 bus 3022.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an arrangement of an ASIC 3001. In FIG. 4, also parts common to those described in the above drawings are denoted by the same reference numbers, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Reference number 4001 denotes the interface of the PC card used to read image data stored in the inserted memory card 3011, as well as to write data to the memory card 3011. Reference numeral 4002 denotes an IEEE1284 interface that is used to communicate with the printer machine 3004. This IEEE1284 interface 4002 is a bus used when image data stored in a digital camera 3012 or a PC card 3011 is to be printed. Reference number 4003 denotes a USB interface through which data is exchanged with a PC 3010. Reference number 4004 indicates a USB host (main device) interface through which data is exchanged with a digital camera 3012. Reference number 4005 denotes a control panel interface that accepts various operating signals from the control panel 1010, and outputs the display data to the display unit 1006. Reference numeral 4006 denotes a viewer interface that controls the display of image data on a viewer 1011. Reference numeral 4007 denotes an interface that controls interfaces with various switches, LEDs 4009, and the like. Reference numeral 4008 denotes a CPU interface that communicates with the DSP 3002. Reference numeral 4010 denotes an internal bus (ASIC bus) interconnecting these interfaces.

Fig. 26 is a block diagram of a DSC 3012 digital camera in this embodiment. The components of the DSC 3012 (NCDP compatible firmware) will be briefly described below.

26, reference numeral 31 denotes a CPU that controls the entire DSC; reference number 32 indicates a read-only memory (ROM) that stores the processing sequence (firmware) of the CPU 31 (note that the ROM contains a rewritable non-volatile memory (eg, flash memory) because the firmware version is updated as necessary) . Reference number 33 denotes random access memory (RAM), which is used as the working area of the CPU 31; and reference number 34 denotes a group of switches used to perform various operations. Reference number 35 denotes a liquid crystal display, which is used to confirm the perceived image, and to display the menu when performing various settings. In this embodiment, said components 34 and 35 serve as a user interface for the entire system when the DSC serves as a component of a direct printing system. Reference number 36 denotes an optical module, which mainly contains a lens and its drive system. Reference number 37 denotes a CCD element (charge coupled device); reference number 38 denotes a driver controlled by the CPU 31 that controls the optical module 36. Reference number 39 denotes a slot into which data medium 40 is inserted (compact flash memory card, smart media card, or the like); and reference numeral 41 denotes a USB interface (slave side of a USB bus) used to connect a PC or a printing device (printer) 1000 (PD) of this embodiment.

The arrangements of the PD and DSC printing apparatus of this embodiment have been explained above. The principle of operation based on the above arrangements will be explained below.

<Normal PC Printer Mode>

This mode is a print mode for printing an image based on print data sent from the PC 3010.

In this mode, when data from the PC 3010 is inputted via the USB connector 1013 (FIG. 3), it is directly sent to the printer machine 3004 via the USB hub 3008 and USB 3021, and the printing process is performed based on the data from the PC 3010.

<PC Print Direct Mode>

When a PC card 3011 is inserted or removed from the card slot 1009, an interrupt is generated, and based on this interrupt, the DSP 3002 can detect whether the PC card 3011 is inserted or removed (removed). When the PC card 3011 is inserted, the compressed image data ( for example, compressed JPEGs) stored in this PC card 3011 are read and stored in the memory 3003. After that, the compressed image data is decompressed and stored in the memory 3003 again. When the user issues a print command for this stored data, the image data is converted to print data that can be printed by the printer 3004 by converting the RGB signals to YMCK signals, gamma correction, improving the image quality according to the principle of random dot scattering, etc., and data prints are supplied to the printer machine 3004 via an IEEE1284 interface 4002, and thus the image is printed.

<Direct print mode from the camera>

FIG. 5 shows the connection status of the PD 1000 printing apparatus and the digital camera according to this embodiment.

5, cable 5000 comprises a connector 5001 that connects to a connector 1012 of a PD printing apparatus 1000, and a connector 5002 that connects to a connector 5003 of a digital camera 3012. The digital camera 3012 can output image data stored in its internal memory via the connector 5003 Note that a digital camera may have various layouts, for example, a layout that contains internal memory as a storage medium, a layout that includes a slot for receiving a removable memory card, and the like. When the PD printer 1000 and the digital camera 3012 are connected by the cable 5000 shown in FIG. 5, image data output from the digital camera 3012 can be directly printed by the PD printer 1000.

When the digital camera 3012 is connected to the PD printing apparatus 1000, as shown in FIG. 5, and the control is entered into direct printing mode as a result of coordination, only the camera logo is displayed on the display unit 1006 of the control panel, display and operations on the control panel 1010 are blocked as well as blocking the display on the viewing device 1011. Therefore, since only basic operations are allowed on the digital camera 3012 and image display on the display module (not shown) of the digital camera 3012, the user can configure print settings using the digital camera 3012. Also, any errors that may occur due to the simultaneous operation of the digital camera can be prevented. the 3012 camera and printer control panel.

The purpose of this embodiment is to provide a PD printing device that can be connected to digital cameras of many manufacturers and which can print their data, and hereinafter, protocols for performing the printing process when the PD printer 1000 according to the present embodiment is connected to a digital camera will be described in detail. .

This embodiment offers the NCDP protocol (the new direct printing protocol from the camera), which provides control over the communication between the PD printer and the digital camera using a universal file and a universal format, and is independent of interfaces.

6 shows an example configuration of such an NCDP.

6, reference numeral 600 denotes a user interface; and reference number 601 denotes a Bluetooth interface. Reference numeral 602 denotes an application layer embedded in the formation of an NCDP based system. Reference numeral 603 denotes the implementation level of existing protocols and interfaces. According to FIG. 6, PTP (Image Transfer Protocol), SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), BIP (Basic Image Profile) Bluetooth technology, and the like are installed. The NCDP according to this embodiment is based on installation as an application program on the architecture of the aforementioned protocol layer. In this case, the PD printing apparatus 1000 is defined as a USB host, the camera 3012 is defined as a USB device, and they have the same NCDP configuration, as shown in FIG. 6.

As will be described in detail below, the benefit of using NCDP according to this embodiment is that when the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012 exchange information with each other, a file (text file) is generated during and after the transition to NCDP that describes a sequence of pieces of information and a sequence of working procedures in the form of a script (script), and this file is sent to the partner device, and the receiving side interprets the received script to execute the processes. As a result, when arbitrary information should be sent to the partner’s side, if this information consists of many elements, individual elements do not have to be transmitted via acknowledged communication, when transferring information, the amount of additional service information can be reduced, thereby increasing the efficiency of information transfer. For example, suppose DSC 3012 has many images that need to be printed. In this case, if the user selects the images to be printed in the quantity he needs and sets the printing conditions for these images, then the sequence of printing procedures is described as a script, and this script can be sent to the PD printer 1000. On the side of the printing apparatus 1000 PD, it is possible to immediately detect printing conditions of the plurality of images by interpreting the received scenario, and it is possible to carry out printing processes according to the scenario.

7 is a diagram for explaining a communication procedure between a PD printing apparatus 1000 and an NCDP based digital camera (DSC) 3012 according to this embodiment.

In this case, when it is detected that the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012 are connected via a USB cable 5000, as shown in FIG. 5, communication between these devices is permitted. As a result, applications installed on these devices are executed to begin the transition to NCDP-based procedures 701. Reference number 702 denotes the initial state of the NCDP. In this state, it is determined whether each other model can implement NCDP. If NCDP can be implemented, then the devices proceed to procedures 701. If no NCDP is installed on the DSC 3012, then no NCDP based communication control is performed. After switching to NCDP in this way, when the DSC 3012 issues a transfer / print command for the image data based on the “basic procedure” as shown by 703, control proceeds to the simple printing mode in which the image file is transferred from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 and prints out. On the other hand, when the DSC 3012 issues a transfer / print command for the image data based on the “recommended procedure”, as shown by reference numeral 704, the control switches to a printing mode corresponding to various functions, in which the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 perform different negotiations for determining the printing condition and the like, the image file is transferred from the DSC 3012 to the PD printing apparatus 1000 and printed according to the printing condition. Moreover, when the DSC 3012 issues a transfer / print command for image data based on the “advanced procedure”, as shown by reference number 705, a mode is set that performs the printing process using an advanced layout function such as DPOF, XHTML printing, SVG, or t .p., and specifications are set that are unique to each supplier. Note that detailed specifications based on such an “extended procedure” are defined in the specifications of each individual DSC manufacturer, and a description thereof will be omitted. Note that image printing processes based on the aforementioned “basic procedure” and “recommended procedure” will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9-11.

FIG. 8 is a table explaining commands defined for printing in NCDP according to this embodiment.

In FIG. 8, the “corresponding mode” corresponds to the aforementioned “basic procedure”, “recommended procedure”, and “advanced procedure” defined by the DSC 3012. In “recommended procedure”, all commands can be used. However, since the "basic procedure" is a simple printing mode, only NCDP start and end commands can be used, a transition command to each of the "basic procedure", "recommended procedure" and "advanced procedure", the image acquisition command from the camera 3012 and the print command from camera 3012. In the “extended procedure” of FIG. 8, only NCDP start and end commands and the transition command for each of the “basic procedure”, “recommended procedure” and “advanced procedure” are allowed. However, as described above, other commands may be used according to the specifications of the respective manufacturers.

Below will be described image printing processes based on the aforementioned “basic procedure” and “advanced procedure”.

9 is a diagram for explaining NCDP communication procedures when an image printing process is performed based on a “basic procedure”. This “basic procedure” is a simple printing mode in which one image file is transferred from the DSC to the PD printer 1000 and printed. Compatible image formats include a VGA (640 x 480 pixel) RGB image and a VGA (640 x 480 pixel) JPEG image. DSC 3012 transmits an image file in an image format supported by the PD printer 1000. In this case, no error handling is performed. The printing process in this mode is limited to placing one image on a sheet. This simple mode is obvious to the user.

The PD printer 1000 sends a command (NCDPStart) indicating the transition to NCDP to the DSC 3012 (900). If NCDP is installed on the DSC 3012, it responds with an “OK” confirmation (901). Note that a practical example of this NCDP confirmation procedure using PTP will be explained in more detail below with reference to FIG.

In the case of mutual confirmation that the NCDP is installed, the PD printer 1000 transmits a Mode Change Command (ProcedureStart) to the DSC 3012 (902). In response to this command, when the DSC 3012 transmits the “basic procedure” as the simple printing mode (903), control switches to a printing mode based on the “basic procedure”. In this case, when an image for printing is selected and a print command is issued when operating on the DSC 3012, a command (JobStart) is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 indicating the start of the print job (904). In response to this command, the PD printer 1000 is set to simple printing and sends a command (GetImage) to the DSC 3012 to request it to send a JPEG image (905). Then, the DSC 3012 sends a JPEG image (906) to the printing apparatus 1000 PD, and the printing process in the printing apparatus 1000 PD begins. Upon completion of the printing process of the predetermined image, the PD printing apparatus 1000 sends a command (JobEnd) indicating the end of the print job to DSC 3012 (907). When the DSC 3012 gives a confirmation response (OK) in response to the indicated command (908), a printing process based on such a “basic procedure” ends.

Since the indication of the mode from the camera allows the device on which the printing operation is to be performed to set the mode, the user who works with the camera can easily set the desired mode.

10 is a diagram for explaining NCDP communication procedures when the image printing process is performed based on the “recommended procedure”. Procedures common to those described in FIG. 9 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted. In the said “recommended procedure”, a “more versatile printing” mode can be set based on the matching between the PD 1000 and the DSC 3012, and photo printing and printing processes with a combination of the images can be performed. Error handling may also be performed.

According to FIG. 10, after mutually confirming the installation of the NCDP, as in FIG. 9, DSC 3012 in this case sets the “recommended procedure” (910). After that, procedures based on this “recommended procedure” are performed. The PD printer 1000 generates its functions and functions, including paper settings and the like, in the form of Capability information (potential opportunities), and informs about all of them DSC 3012 (911). This Capability information is transmitted to DSC 3012 in a script format (a file that describes the sequence of procedures and information in text format).

12 depicts an example of Capability information.

As shown in FIG. 12, this Capability information contains information about types and sizes of printing paper, print quality, image data format, enable / disable date printing, enable / disable print file name, layout, enable / disable image correction, and enable / disable disabling functions that match the specifications of each camera manufacturer, etc. as options.

Because Capability information takes on a scripted view, and the view is consistent with XML (Extensible Markup Language), this information can be easily exported to the architecture of another communication protocol, and the exchange of such functionality information can easily be standardized. This reason can be easily understood in comparison, for example, with the case in which individual elements are described using specialized commands. For example, if the DSC 3012 receives a notification in the form of a description of "<ImageType = ...>" used to notify the types of images that the PD printer 1000 can process, in FIG. 12, a specialized command is required. It is not possible to prepare teams first, given the new features that may be added in the future. Because functions are described using a script, a sequence of pieces of information can be described as text from multiple lines. If the script contains a clause that cannot be interpreted, that clause may be ignored. Therefore, extensibility will never be canceled. The same applies to other scenarios.

After receiving such Capability information, the DSC 3012 may determine the functions of the PD printer 1000 to be used in the printing process. DSC 3012 presents a menu according to the result of this determination, prompting the user to select the image to be printed. In addition, DSC 3012 selects and determines the print condition of this image from the functions (print conditions) of the PD printer 1000. After the image for printing and the printing condition thereof are determined when a print start command is issued, a print command (JobStart) is sent to the printing apparatus 1000 PD. In response to this command, the PD printing apparatus 1000 issues a command (GetImage xn) that requests the data of this image (912). In response to this command, the DSC 3012 transmits the corresponding image data in an image format (Tiff, JPEG, RGB or the like) that the PD printer 1000 (913) can receive. The reason that image data can be transmitted for each image to be printed is because when, for example, printing with a 2x2 layout or the like is specified, four image data must be transmitted for each sheet of paper. After the printing process of the specified image is completed, the PD printing apparatus 1000 transmits to the DSC 3012 a command (JobEnd) indicating the end of the print job (907). If the DSC 3012 returns a confirmation response (OK) in response to this command (908), the control again starts the process of selecting and printing the next image based on this “recommended procedure”.

11 is a diagram illustrating communication procedures when an error occurs in the PD printer 1000 in the NCDP communication procedures after performing the image printing process based on the above “recommended procedure”. The procedures common to those described in FIG. 10 are denoted in FIG. 11 by the same reference numbers, and a description thereof will be omitted.

11 is an example of a case in which a paper feeding error occurs in the PD printer 1000 during a printing process based on the “Recommended Procedure”. In this case, the PD printing apparatus 1000 sends Status information indicating to the DSC 3012 a paper feed error (914). In response to the above information, a command is sent to the PD printer 1000 indicating whether this printing process should be continued (JobContinue) or interrupted (JobAbort) based on the contents of the indication defined by the user of DSC 3012 (915). When the printing process is to be interrupted, the printing apparatus 1000 PD interrupts this printing process and transmits a message to the end of the print job (JobEnd). On the other hand, when the continuation of the printing process is indicated, the apparatus continues the printing process after correcting this paper feeding error.

The above processing sequence will be explained below with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 13.

Fig.13 depicts a logical block diagram explaining the sequence of processing shown in Fig.7.

In step S1, a connection is established between the digital camera (DSC) 3012 and the PD printer 1000 (700). At step S2, a check is made as to whether these devices have NCDP installed. If these devices have already installed NCDP, NCDP mode starts. Then, a transition to step S3 takes place, at which a procedure command is received from DSC 3012, and a predetermined procedure is started. If a “basic procedure” is specified, then a transition from step S4 to step S5 occurs, in which the printing process is performed based on the “basic procedure”. On the other hand, if a “recommended procedure” is specified, then a transition is made from step S6 to step S7, where the printing process is performed based on the “recommended procedure”. In addition, if an “advanced procedure” is specified, then a transition from step S8 to step S9 occurs, in which the printing process based on the “advanced procedure” is performed. If another procedure is specified, then proceeds to step S10, where the printing process is performed in a mode unique to the PD 1000 and DSC 3012.

Next, an example will be described in which various commands are implemented in the above NCDP mode (FIG. 8) using the standard PTP protocol defined by PIMA (Association of Photographic and Image Processing Equipment Manufacturers) for image transfer (shell using PTP). In this embodiment, an example of NCDP using PTP will be provided. However, the present invention is not limited to such a specific example. For example, the direct printing service API (application programming interface) can be implemented on another interface or class.

[NCDPStart]

14 is a diagram for explaining an example implementation of a command (NCDPStart) that instructs to start an NCDP procedure using the standard PTP image transfer protocol. More specifically, FIG. 14 shows matching procedures that determine whether the DSC 3012 and the PD printing apparatus 1000 can serve as a direct photo printing system in this embodiment to cause the switch to “switch to NCDP” mode shown in FIG. 7.

In procedure 1400, the PD printer 1000 transmits a PTP GetDeviceInfo command to the DSC 3012, requesting it to send information associated with the objects stored by the DSC. Simply put, this command is a query about which device is connected to the PD printing device. In response to this command, DSC 3012 transmits information (informs) about itself to the PD printer 1000 using the Devicelnfo dataset. However, this information is integral information associated with the camera, which is defined by the PTP standard, but does not contain any information related to direct printing. In procedure 1402, the PTP OpenSession command starts a session to designate DSC 3012 as a resource, to properly assign descriptors (descriptors) to data objects, and to perform a special initialization process.

In procedure 1403, a descriptor request is sent to DSC 3012. With this request, the PD printer 1000 requests numbers uniquely associated with unknown objects (perceived images, scripts, etc.) stored by the DSC to define these objects. In response to this request, the descriptor list stored by DSC 3012 is sent back in procedure 1404 (this list is equivalent to a message indicating the number of objects).

As a result of the above procedures, the PD printing apparatus 1000 can determine the number of objects stored by the DSC. When negotiating, it is important to determine whether both devices have features that can run NCDP. With this determination, when there are scripts that respectively describe the NCDP_CAMERA and NCDP_PRINTER passwords, and both devices can receive the intended results from each other, the control starts NCDP direct printing mode.

Therefore, as described above, the PD printing apparatus 1000 must search among objects stored by the DSC 3012 for an object whose attribute is a script.

To this end, the PD printer 1000 gives DSC 3012 a PTP command GetObjectInfo (Handle i) (in this case i = 1), which requests the attribute of the object with the first descriptor "1", and accepts the returned i-th attribute (ObjectInfo i Dataset) . The printing device repeats this process from 1 to the maximum number of objects. More specifically, the printer is looking for an object whose attribute is not an image, but a script that describes a password (word). The PTP GetObjectInfo command can specify an object type as an option. However, since some digital cameras may not support this option, a search process for such a script object is required.

When the PD printer 1000 detects a descriptor (say, a descriptor "j") of a script object, it issues a PTP command "GetObject (Handle j)", which requests the data specified by this descriptor "j", to DSC 3012. As a result, DSC 3012 produces a script that describes the password "NCDP_CAMERA" to the printer 1000 PD in the form of "Object j Data".

As a result, the PD printing apparatus 1000 can recognize that the connected DSC 3012 is an NCDP compatible digital camera. Further, the PD printing apparatus 1000 sends a password “NCDP_PRINTER” indicating an NCDP compatible printer. Prior to this password, the printing apparatus transmits attribute information for the transmitted object using SendObjectInfo (S1407). The printer then tells the DSC 3012 the password "NCDP_PRINTER" using SendObject. Note that these passwords are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these specific examples.

As a result of the above procedures, both devices recognize that they are NCDP compatible devices. After that, the control enters the NCDP direct photo printing mode according to the present invention.

25 is a flowchart showing the above procedures.

In step S21, the PD printing apparatus 1000 (referred to hereinafter simply as PD) issues a Get Device Info request to the DSC 3012 (in response to this request, in step S41, the DSC informs the PD apparatus 1000 showing information indicating an attribute of the devices (DeviceInfoDataset)).

In step S22, the PD printing apparatus 1000 announces the start of a session (OpenSession). In step S42, the DSC 3012 receives this announcement and responds to the PD 1000 with an “OK” confirmation.

In step S23, the PD 1000 requests descriptors of objects stored by DSC 3012 (GetObjectHandles). In response to this request, in step S43, the DSC 3012 notifies the PD 1000 of its stored objects (images and scripts), (ObjectHandleArray), and in step S24, the PD 1000 receives this information.

Since the PD 1000 can determine the number of descriptors from the received information, it first substitutes “1” in place of the variable i in step S25, indicating the descriptor as the initial value, and in step S26 it requests the attribute of the ith object (GetObject (Handle i)). As a result, since the DSC 3012 transmits the attribute of the corresponding object (ObjectInfo Dataset), the PD 1000 receives it, and in step S27 checks whether this object is a script. If it is determined that the corresponding object is not a scenario (it is a perceived image), then in step S28, the PD 1000 increments the variable i by one, and in step S26 repeats the process.

If it is determined that the i-th object is a script, then proceed to step S29, in which they ask the DSC to transmit the contents of the i-th object (GetObject (Handle i)). That is, the specified object is sent in anticipation of a password (word). As a result, since in step S45, the DSC 3012 informs PD 1000 the contents of the specified object (Object i Data), in step S30, the PD 1000 checks whether the contents are the password “NCDP_CAMERA”. If it is determined that the content is not the password "NCDP_CAMERA", but another script was sent accidentally, then at step S31, the PD 1000 checks to see if the variable i indicates the last descriptor. If the determination result is negative in step S31, then returns to step S28 to repeat the above processes. If the PD 1000 determines that the DSC has not reported the password “NCDP_CAMERA” after the last descriptor has been reached, it determines that the connected DSC 3012 is a digital camera incompatible with NCDP. In order to interrupt subsequent processes, the PD 1000 turns on the LED provided on its control panel to report an error or displays a message indicating a negotiation failure, thus ending this process.

On the other hand, if the PD 1000 receives the password “NCDP_CAMERA” from the DSC 3012, then proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the PD 1000 sends a script that describes the password "NCDP_PRINTER" to the DSC 3012 (SendObject) (SendObject) by the procedure (send SendObjectInfo and receive OK), indicating that the PD 1000 is compatible with NCDP (S33). Since the script received from the DSC 3012 is no longer required, the PD 1000 deletes the script and starts the NCDP mode.

If it is determined in step S46 that the password “NCDP_ PRINTER” has been received, proceeds to step S47, and the DSC 3012 deletes this script received from the PD 1000 and starts the NCDP mode.

The processing sequence for negotiation has been described. Note that the above example corresponds to the case where both the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012 support NCDP.

Since PTP is used in negotiation in this embodiment, even a digital camera having a USB connection function not compatible with NCDP performs processes from step S41 to steps S44, S45 and S46. However, since the process is not presented in step S45, it is determined that the received data is insignificant data (scenario), and that this data is simply received and stored to repeat steps S44 and S45.

It should be especially noted that the source of password transmission based on a script request from the PD printer 1000 is always DSC 3012 (even when DSC 3012 is not compatible with NCDP, it transmits the first script). That is, the printing apparatus 1000 PD produces the password "NCDP_PRINTER" in response to the password "NCDP_CAMERA", and only when the printing apparatus 1000 PD receives the first password "NCDP_CAMERA" does it issue the password "NCDP_PRINTER" in response to this password.

After adopting such procedures, if the PD printer 1000 produces the password first, there is no problem when the DSC 3012 is NCDP compatible. However, if DSC 3012 is incompatible with NCDP, then since the process cannot continue at step S47, it continuously receives and deletes insignificant script files (unnecessary files).

As described above, since the PD printer 1000 sends a request to the DSC, the DSC first outputs the authentication information (the above password or word) after mutual authentication, and the PD printer 1000 outputs the authentication information in response to the information, the device connected to the printing device 1000 PD, you can protect against the accumulation of unnecessary files, regardless of its type. The latter is because the PD printing apparatus 1000 does not output identification information if the script received from the DSC does not contain any expected identification information. Especially since the request from the device (in this case, the printing apparatus 1000 PD) that transmits the identification information to the next is sent to the DSC as the device that transmits the identification information first, the printing apparatus 1000 PD does not need to recognize whether the script received as response to this request, an unnecessary file.

In the above process, since the NCDP-compatible digital camera contains a script describing the password, the transition to the NCDP printing system is guaranteed. However, as can be easily seen from the above description, in order to shorten the matching time, a script that contains the identification information (word) is preferably assigned to the object with the descriptor number that was previously requested from the objects of DSC 3012. In this embodiment, if DSC 3012 is compatible with NCDP and accepts the descriptor request (GetObjectHandles), it assigns the descriptor number "1" to the script (identification information), which includes the word, assigns subsequent descriptor numbers to images that were received with store, and report PD printer apparatus 1000 appropriation of the result. With this method, the earliest transition to NCDP mode is expected.

As a result, the cyclic processes of steps S26-S28 or those of processes for steps S26-S31 and S28 can be substantially omitted, and the processing can proceed immediately to steps S33 and S34, thereby achieving quick coordination.

As the process carried out on the side of DSC 3012, it is possible to take, for example, the sequence shown in Fig. 27 (the program of this sequence is stored in ROM 32 of DSC 3012). Note that the process of FIG. 27 is executed when a descriptor request command (GetObjectHandles) is received from the PD 1000 and is called from the main process after receiving this command. Therefore, note that the acceptance or rejection of GetObjectHandles is already determined by the main process.

At step S51, in RAM 33, a table (or variable area) is allocated that is used to store objects and descriptors in accordance with each other. The process proceeds to step S52, in which an object that describes a script indicating compatibility with NCDP is placed in a table to be assigned to the first descriptor. After that, the descriptors are assigned to the rest of the objects (usually the data of the perceived image that were saved and stored) and placed in the table. The result is then sent to the 1000 PD printer as an ObjectHandleArray.

As a result, the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 can share information after defining the objects. In subsequent processes, DSC 3012 objects are exchanged using descriptors.

When the PD printer 1000 determines whether the DSC 3012 is a script, in reverse order from the last descriptor, the DSC 3012 can assign a script including a password to the last descriptor after notifying the PD 1000 of the descriptors.

Note that it is most beneficial to assign the first descriptor number to an object that describes a script indicating compatibility with NCDP. However, it is not always necessary to assign the first descriptor number and it is advantageous to assign a number close to the first. That is, until the last number is assigned to an object that describes a scenario indicating compatibility with NCDP, faster agreement can be achieved than when the last number was assigned.

[ProcedureStart]

Fig. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a command (ProcedureStart) used to initiate a predetermined mode after receiving from the DSC 3012 a command defining a procedure for starting the mode is implemented using the PTP architecture.

In order to notify the DSC 3012 of the “basic procedure”, “recommended procedure” and “extended procedure” supported by the PD printer 1000, the printer notifies the DSC 3012 of the presence of object information that must be sent to it using the PTP SendObjectInfo command (1501). After receiving a confirmation response (OK) from the DSC 3012 in response to the command, the printer sends a message indicating that it is ready to transfer the object to the DSC 3012 using the PTP SendObject (1502) command, and then transmits information associated with the procedures supported 1000 PD printing apparatus using ObjectData (1503). DSC 3012 issues a RequestDataTransfer event message defined by the PTP protocol to the PD printer 1000 (1504) to notify the printer that the GetPreject Operation PTP command should be issued. In response to this message, when the PD printer 1000 sends a message indicating that it is ready to receive information associated with the object information (GetObjectInfo) (1505), this information is returned using the ObjectInfo Dataset (1506). When the information itself is requested by setting the object information (1507), the DSC 3012 informs the PD printer 1000 about the procedures (“basic”, “recommended” and “extended”, etc.) that the DSC 3012 uses by means of an Object Dataset (1508).

Thus, the DSC 3012 can set the print mode of the images by the printing apparatus 1000 PD.

[NCDPEnd]

Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example in which an (NCDPEnd) command used to complete NCDP communication control procedures according to this embodiment is implemented using the PTP architecture.

In this procedure, the PD printer 1000 informs the DSC 3012 that there is object information to be sent (1600), and notifies the DSC 3012 that it is leaving the NCDP mode using ObjectData. After receiving a confirmation response (OK) in response to this command, at step 1601, a PTP CloseSession command is transmitted to end this communication. Thus, the NCDP communication procedures are completed.

[Capability]

17 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures in a Capability command used to notify the DSC 3012 of the functions of the PD printer 1000 in the NCDP according to the present embodiment are implemented using the PTP protocol.

In this procedure, the PD printer 1000 informs the DSC 3012 of the presence of object information that must be sent to it using the PTP SendObjectInfo (1700) command. The printer then notifies the DSC 3012 that it is ready to transmit object information using the PTP SendObject command, and then transfers the functions of the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 in a script format (FIG. 12) using Object Data (1701).

[GetImage]

Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the PD printer 1000 receives image data (JPEG image) stored by the DSC 3012 (GetImage) are implemented using the PTP protocol.

After sending a request for information associated with the object stored by the DSC 3012 (1800), the DSC 3012 sends the information (Object Dataset) associated with the object to the PD printer 1000 (1801). When a GetObject is issued by setting this object (1802), the DSC 3012 transmits the requested image file (Object Dataset) to the PD printer 1000 (1803). Thus, the PD printing apparatus 1000 can obtain the desired image file from the DSC 3012.

[StatusSend]

Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the PD printer 1000 informs the DSC 3012 an error status or the like. (StatusSend) in NCDP according to this embodiment are implemented using the PTP protocol.

The PD printer 1000 notifies the DSC 3012 of the availability of object information to be sent using the PTP SendObjectInfo (1900) command. The printer then transmits to the DSC 3012 information (Object Dataset) associated with this object information (1901). In response to a confirmation response (OK) from the DSC 3012, error status information and the like. in the printing apparatus 1000, the PD is transmitted using the PTP SendObject and Object Dataset commands.

[PageEnd]

20 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the PD printing apparatus 1000 notifies the DSC 3012 of the end of the single page printing (PageEnd) process in the NCDP according to this embodiment are implemented using the PTP protocol.

[JobEnd]

21 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the PD printing apparatus 1000 notifies the DSC 3012 of the end of the print job (JobEnd) in the NCDP according to this embodiment are implemented using the PTP protocol. According to FIGS. 20 and 21, after performing the procedures 1900 and 1901 of FIG. 19, the PD printing apparatus 1000 notifies the DSC 3012 of the end of the printing process of one page (1910 in FIG. 20), and the PD printing apparatus 1000 notifies the DSC 3012 of the end of the job printing (1911 in FIG. 21).

[JobStart]

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the DSC 3012 notifies the PD printing apparatus 1000 of the start of a print job (JobStart) in the NCDP according to this embodiment are implemented using the PTP protocol.

The DSC 3012 sends a RequestObjectTransfer event message specified by PTP (2200) to the PD printer 1000 PD to prompt the PD printer 1000 to issue a PTP GetObject command. As a result, when the PD printing apparatus 1000 issues a PTP command GetObjectInfo (2201), the DSC 3012 transmits information associated with the object information to be transmitted. In response to the above information, when the PD printer 1000 requests the object information (GetObject) (2203), an Object Dataset is transmitted to issue a print command from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 (2204).

[JobAbort]

23 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the DSC 3012 issues a print abort command (JobAbort) to the NCDP printer PD 1000, according to this embodiment, are implemented using the PTP protocol.

[JobContinue]

24 is a diagram for explaining an example in which communication procedures when the DSC 3012 issues a Job Reset command to the NCDP to the PD printer 1000, according to this embodiment, are implemented using the PTP protocol.

23 and 24, after performing the procedures 2200-2203 in FIG. 22, the DSC 3012 issues a print interrupt command to the PD printer 1000 (2301 in FIG. 23) and sends a print resume command to the PD printer 1000 (2401 in FIG. .24).

Note that the present invention can be applied either to a system formed by a set of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), or to a device consisting of a single unit (for example, a copy machine, a fax machine or the like).

The objectives of the present invention are also solved by providing a storage medium (or recording medium) on which software program code is recorded that can implement functions (processes to be performed on the camera side, various printing processes performed on the printer side), according to the above options embodiments for a system or device, as well as reading and executing program code stored on a storage medium by a computer (CPU or microprocessor unit) of a system or device oystva.

In such a case, the program code itself, read from the data medium, implements the functions of the above embodiments, and the data medium in which the program code is stored comprise the present invention. The functions of the above embodiments may be implemented not only by executing the program code read by a computer, but also by some or all of the actual processing operations performed by an operating system (OS) operating on a computer based on a program code instruction.

Moreover, the functions of the above embodiments may be implemented by some or all of the actual processing operations performed by a CPU or the like located on a function expansion board or in a function expansion module that is inserted into or connected to a computer after the program code read from the storage medium is written to the memory of the board or expansion module.

In the above description, since the number of the descriptor, which should be exchanged as soon as possible, is assigned identification information, the transition time to the direct printing process from the camera is reduced.

However, when the identification process is performed with a device that does not have the function of direct printing from the camera, all pieces of information about the descriptor numbers must be exchanged, and it will take a long time to determine the identification failure.

To solve this problem, a device having a direct printing function from a camera preferably assigns a handle number in a range of a predetermined amount from a number to be exchanged for information to recognition information. (For example, in the aforementioned embodiment, it is prescribed to assign the identification information one of the descriptor numbers from “1” to “10.” When exchanging information in decreasing order, the number is assigned in the range of 10 numbers from the maximum number). In this way, recognition failure can be quickly detected.

The predetermined number of descriptor numbers is not limited to 10. However, a device that transmits identification information first, and which transmits identification information second, preferably uses common numbers.

With this arrangement, even when the first DSC descriptor number cannot be assigned identification information, since the identification information can be assigned the smallest possible descriptor number, design freedom is not so limited. When identification information cannot be exchanged, this fact can be quickly recognized.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the PD printing device is considered a USB host and the DSC is considered a USB device, the PD printing device transmits information associated with its Capability to the DSC before the printing operation, and, based on this Capability information after issuing the print command, DSC can determine the optimal mode.

Since Capability information is transmitted using a script, this information can be easily exported to other communication protocols, thus facilitating standardization.

Since communication procedures between devices are performed using universal files and a universal format, and the communication protocol layer of the application program according to the present embodiment is set as the upper level, communication procedures independent of various interface specifications can be set.

In the above embodiment, after forming the direct photo printing system, the printing apparatus operates as a USB host, and the DSC acts as a USB device. As discussed above, given the fact that most modern digital cameras have the function of a USB device to communicate with a PC, if the number of manufacturers of digital cameras is greater than the number of printer manufacturers, and the main device does not experience problems with the power source when the printer is operating as a host, then the requirements for manufacturers can be relaxed, and manufacturers can take significant advantages in constructing the system according to the present invention, and such a system is a pre respectful to the end user.

According to the aforementioned embodiment, an example of direct connection using a USB cable has been given as an example of a direct communication means between a digital camera and a printer. Since direct communication can also be carried out via wireless communication, for example, based on the Bluetooth protocol or the like, the present invention is not limited to the above example.

As described above, according to the present invention, an identification procedure that avoids storing unnecessary information in a digital camera can be performed regardless of whether the digital camera connected to the printer has a direct print function.

When constructing a direct photo printing system, information transfer efficiency can be improved, and the image that the user wants to print can be printed in a shorter time.

Since the exchange of information is described in a scenario, the functional differences between manufacturers can be smoothed out. Even when new functions are added to the printer or to the digital camera, or to both of them, since the communication itself can be implemented in various ways, flexible communication can be implemented.

Since it is possible to offer a variety of obvious embodiments, without departing from the essence and without going beyond the scope of the invention, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to specific variants of its embodiment except as specified in the claims.

Claims (25)

1. A print control device that is capable of directly communicating with a digital camera using communication means, wherein the digital camera is used as a user interface device to enter commands for printing, with the possibility of receiving an image stored in a storage device attached to digital camera, and with the possibility of the prescription of the printing medium to print this image, while the device contains a query tool for requesting qi a front-facing camera, in response to the start of said communication means of communicating with the digital camera, send identification information indicating that the digital camera has a direct printing function; and notification means for notifying the digital camera after receiving identification information from the digital camera indicating that the digital camera has a direct printing function as a result of a request executed by said requesting means by means of identification information indicating that the print control device has a direct printing function. 2. The device according to claim 1, in which the aforementioned query tool requests the digital camera to send identification information by preferentially selecting script attribute information from information stored in the digital camera. 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein said requesting means and said notification means are implemented using an image transfer protocol (PTP) in a universal serial bus (USB) interface. 4. The device according to claim 3, which communicates with the digital camera using the direct printing protocol, which is implemented at the upper level of the RTP protocol, after the digital camera is notified by the mentioned notification means by means of identification information. 5. The device according to claim 1, which is the main device of the USB interface. 6. The device of claim 1, further comprising sending means for sending a request to the digital camera to request the digital camera to send print control information describing the print condition to the print control device and print control to instruct said print medium to print image data according to the print condition described in the received print control information, the identification information and print control information received from the digital camera, etc. dstavlyayut a script file. 7. A method of controlling a print control device that is capable of directly communicating with a digital camera using communication means, wherein the digital camera is used as a user interface device for entering commands regarding printing, with the possibility of receiving an image stored in a storage device, attached to a digital camera, and with the possibility of prescribing a printing means to print this image, the method includes a request step, which they request a digital camera, in response to the start of the said means of communication with the digital camera, to send identification information indicating that the digital camera has a direct print function; and a notification step, at which the digital camera is notified, after receiving identification information from the digital camera indicating that the digital camera has a direct printing function as a result of a request made in said request step by means of identification information indicating that the print control device has a function direct printing. 8. The method according to claim 7, in which, at the aforementioned request stage, identification information is requested by preferentially selecting script attribute information from information stored in the digital camera. 9. The method according to claim 7, in which communication at the said request stage and the said notification stage is carried out using the image transfer protocol (PTP) in the universal serial bus (USB) interface. 10. The method according to claim 9, whereby said print control device communicates with a digital camera using a direct printing protocol, which is implemented at the upper level of the PTP protocol, after notifying the digital camera via identification information at the said notification step. 11. The method of claim 7, wherein said print control device is a USB host device. 12. The method according to claim 7, further comprising sending a request to the digital camera to request the digital camera to send print control information describing the print condition to the print control device, and a print control step to instruct said printing means to print image data according to a print condition described in the received print control information, the identification information and print control information received from the digital camera but are script files. 13. An image providing apparatus that communicates with a printer and has a user interface for inputting commands for printing an image stored in a memory connected to the image providing apparatus, the apparatus comprising reception means for receiving from the printer, in response to initiating communication with the printer, a request to send the identification information stored in said image providing apparatus to the printer, said identification information indicating that said image providing apparatus has a direct printing function; sending means for sending identification information to the printer after receiving said request by said receiving means and recognition means for recognizing the printer as a printer having a direct print function if information describing the identification information indicating that the printer has a direct print function is received after said sending means sent identification information to a printer. 14. The device according to item 13, in which the request from the printer is a request to send identification information by preferentially selecting script attribute information from information stored in the image providing device. 15. The device according to item 13, in which said receiving means and said sending means are implemented using an image transfer protocol (PTP) in a universal serial bus (USB) interface. 16. The device according to clause 15, which, after the aforementioned recognition means recognizes the printer as having a direct print function, communicates with the printer using the direct printing protocol, which is implemented at the upper level of the PTP protocol. 17. The device according to item 13, which is a slave device of the USB interface. 18. The device according to item 13, in which the aforementioned sending means sends print control information describing the printing condition to the printer, after receiving information describing the identification information from the printer, wherein the identification information and print control information sent to the printer are script files. 19. A method for controlling an image providing device that communicates with a printer and has a user interface for entering commands for printing an image stored in a memory connected to the image providing device, the method comprising a receiving step, which is received from the printer, in response to initiating communication with the printer, a request to send the identification information stored in said image providing apparatus to the printer, said identification information indicating that said image providing apparatus has a direct printing function; a sending step of sending identification information to the printer after receiving said request at said receiving stage; and a recognition step in which the printer is recognized as a printer having a direct printing function if information describing the identification information indicating that the printer has a direct printing function is received after the identification information has been sent to the printer in said sending step. 20. The method according to claim 19, in which the request from the printer is a request to send identification information by preferentially selecting script attribute information from information stored in the image providing apparatus. 21. The method according to claim 19, wherein said receiving step and said sending step are carried out using an image transfer protocol (RTP) in a universal serial bus (USB) interface. 22. The method according to item 21, according to which, after the printer is recognized as having a direct printing function in said recognition step, said image providing apparatus communicates with the printer using the direct printing protocol, which is implemented at the upper level of the PTP protocol. 23. The method of claim 19, wherein said image providing apparatus is a USB slave device. 24. The method according to claim 19, in which at the said sending stage, print control information describing the printing condition is sent to the printer after receiving information describing the identification information from the printer, wherein the identification information and print control information sent to the printer are script files. 25. A printing system including a digital camera and a printer, said digital camera storing an image perceived by the image pickup means on a storage medium and has a user interface for entering commands for printing an image, the printer printing an image received from a digital camera via means of communication, while the printer contains requesting means for requesting a digital camera, in response to the start of said communication means of communicating with the digital camera, send identification information indicating that the digital camera has a direct printing function; notification means for notifying the digital camera after receiving identification information from the digital camera indicating that the digital camera has a direct print function as a result of a request executed by said requesting means by means of identification information indicating that the printer has a direct printing function, while digital the camera contains reception means for receiving from the said means a request from the printer, in response to the start of communication with the printer, a request and sending identification information; sending means for sending identification information to the printer after receiving said request by said reception means and recognition means for recognizing the printer as a printer having a direct print function, if said notification means of the printer has issued a notification using information describing the identification information indicating that the printer has a direct printing function, after said sending means has sent identification information to a printer.

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